This weekend I finished Next Generation Leader: 5 Essentials for Those Who Will Shape the Future
by Andy Stanley.  This is one of those books that I should have read a long time but just kept putting off.  Andy is a wonderful communicator.  I have been blessed to listen to many of sermon series from Northpoint Community Church.

In this book Andy outlines the five characteristics that he feels are vital to being a successful leader for future generations.  These 5 characteristics are:

1. Courage
2. Competence
3. Clarity
4. Coachability
5. Character

Unlike many books on leadership, I feel that Andy strikes a nice balance with the time that spends on each component.  Many books I have read on leadership are simply too long.  Andy covers some high quality information in a mere 160 pages.  The questions at the end of each section also helps readers delve deeper into the concepts that he discusses.

When I first read the book I wondered why I left character for last.  Had I been writing the book I would have put it first because it of its importance.  But in the opening paragraph to this section Andy explains:

“Character is not essential to leadership.”

“We all know leaders who have led large organizations and garnered the loyalty of many followers, and yet lacked character.  They demonstrated courage and competency.  They were clear in their directives.  They may have even sought the advice of others.  But they were not men and women who were known for doing what was right.”

Reflecting on this, I know that he is right.  I don’t like it, but he is right.

I know there are lots of books on leadership out there.  I know many of them say essentially the same thing.  I think the difference comes from the ability of the author to communicate clearly with his readers.  I believe that Andy’s style makes it easy for anyone to understand and apply it to your life.

Tags: Andy Stanley, Book Reviews, Books, Leadership, Ministry, Next Generation Leader